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They are a community that traces its roots to the Kamata kingdom, which comprised parts of Assam, West Bengal and adjoining territories.
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In the medieval period, the community was dominant and ruled their territory of Kamatapur, which comprised a large part of Bangladesh, West Bengal, Bihar and India’s north-east.
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After Independence, the princely state of Cooch Behar became part of West Bengal.
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Today, Koch Rajbongshis are found in Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal and Bihar, and in Bangladesh, Nepal and some parts of Bhutan.
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They are estimated to number over 33 lakh in West Bengal, mostly the northern districts, and have a large presence in Assam.